The green mountains of Vermont were home to Carolyn Thompson twice before during her career practicing law and after several years practicing in California, she knew it was time to return to Vermont.
“I always felt happiest when living and working in Vermont and I’m so pleased that I’ve been able to make the move ‘back home’”, she said.
Ms. Thompson specializes in estate planning which encompasses the work needed to prepare the appropriate wills, powers of attorney and optional trusts before death (or possible disability) and assists clients with a variety of tasks after a death (i.e. executors of wills in probate, trustees during trust administration, or beneficiaries of an estate with questions).
There are many options available when it comes to estate planning and what is right for each person and situation varies greatly. Estate planning is important for a multitude of reasons not the least of which it provides “peace of mind” for family and takes the stress and burden off of loved ones when decisions have to be made.
“People tend to think estate planning is only for the very wealthy, but that is not true. It is very important for people of all ranges of income and measures of assets to consider this type of planning. The time to do it is now while you can still make your own choices”, according to Ms. Thompson.
Clients receive an initial free consultation which includes a “check list” that helps them create a good overview of their needs and options. Saturday morning appointments are also an option with other flexible hours to accommodate a variety of schedules.
Ms. Thompson’s office is located at 75 Main St., Vergennes, VT in a historic home that has been carefully renovated using local artisans, craftspeople, and carpenters. Ms. Thompson acted as her own contractor with special assistance from Robert Cobb of Waltham and John Connor of Bristol.
Below is the complete list of services that were provided by local businesses and individuals:
General Contracting Assistance and Carpentry: Robert Cobb of Waltham and John Connor of Bristol
Floors: Jim Allen of Ferrisburgh
Painting: Brian Slavin, Interior and some exterior
Excavation/Driveway: Matt DeBisschop, DeBisschop Excavating, LLC
Fence: Middlebury Fence Company
Landscaping Team: Suzy Rhoorda and Gary Santimore
Paint Consultation: Connie Carroll from Distinctive Paint & Interiors in Middlebury
Electricity: Barry McDonald
Caterer for open house: Cindy Winters
Zoning: City Manager Mel Hawley as Zoning Administrator was helpful in securing the permit required for authorizing the office use of the property in a Residential/Limited Business District
IT: Denis Mailloux